Could Michael Trigg Be the Commanders’ Next Mismatch Weapon at Tight End?
With Zach Ertz likely moving on after two productive seasons in Washington, the Commanders are staring down a critical offseason decision: who’s going to be their next difference-maker at tight end? General manager Adam Peters has options, but the most cost-efficient-and potentially most rewarding-route may be through the 2026 NFL Draft.
Washington thought they had a long-term answer in Ben Sinnott. Two years in, the jury’s still out.
John Bates brings value as a blocking specialist, but he’s not moving the chains in the passing game. And no one else on the roster has shown the kind of dynamic upside that can consistently help quarterback Jayden Daniels, especially in the middle of the field-an area where Daniels faced scrutiny during his rookie season.
Enter Michael Trigg, a Baylor tight end who might not be a household name just yet, but could be a sneaky Day 2 option with real upside in the right system. Let’s break down what makes Trigg intriguing-and where he still needs to grow.
Michael Trigg, TE, Baylor - 2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report
Vitals:
- Height: 6'3 3/8"
- Weight: 243 lbs
- Projected 40 Time: 4.60-4.68 seconds
Trigg’s college journey was a winding one, but he flashed big-play ability and strong per-target efficiency when used as a flex tight end. He’s not your traditional in-line bruiser-he’s a modern, moveable piece designed to stress defenses.
What He Brings to the Table
Mismatch Potential:
Trigg is the type of athlete that makes linebackers uncomfortable and safeties hesitate.
He’s smooth in and out of breaks, and his fluid movement skills allow him to separate with route nuance and straight-line speed. He’s got natural hands and can extend outside his frame to make difficult catches-something that will help Daniels trust him in contested situations.
Versatility in Alignment:
Whether he’s lined up inline, in the slot, or split out wide, Trigg gives offensive coordinators options. That flexibility could be especially appealing to Washington’s new OC David Blough, who’s expected to bring a more creative, matchup-driven approach to the offense.
YAC Threat:
Trigg doesn’t just catch passes-he does something with them.
He accelerates quickly and runs with the kind of balance you usually see in wide receivers, not tight ends. That makes him a weapon after the catch, especially on quick-hitters and seam routes.
Red-Zone Upside:
In the red zone, Trigg has shown he can win in multiple ways-on fades, seam shots, and back-shoulder throws. That kind of versatility is gold when space gets tight and matchups matter most.
Where He Needs Work
Blocking Limitations:
Let’s be clear-Trigg isn’t going to move defenders off the ball like a traditional Y tight end.
He struggles to generate push against stronger edge players and can be overwhelmed at the point of attack. He’s more of a space player than a trench warrior.
Play Strength and Consistency:
His play strength is average for the position, and his effort as a blocker can be inconsistent. That’s something that will need to improve if he’s going to see early-down snaps in the NFL.
Route Discipline:
There are times when his routes can drift or lose tempo, which can throw off timing with the quarterback. That’s coachable, but it’s something to monitor.
Durability Questions:
Trigg’s college career had its share of stops and starts. Staying healthy and consistent will be key to unlocking his full potential at the next level.
How He Fits in Washington
Trigg isn’t a plug-and-play replacement for Ertz, but he brings a different kind of juice-one that could elevate the Commanders’ passing game. He’s not going to anchor the edge in the run game, but that’s not what Washington needs from him. What they do need is someone who can stretch the field vertically, create mismatches against zone and man coverage, and give Daniels a reliable target across the middle.
Think of him as a chess piece. Used correctly, Trigg could be a key part of a more dynamic, spread-out offensive look-especially in sub-packages where his athleticism can shine.
NFL Comparison: Evan Engram
Trigg’s game mirrors Evan Engram’s in a lot of ways. Both are athletic tight ends who win with speed, alignment versatility, and receiving chops, but aren’t going to wow anyone as in-line blockers. Like Engram, Trigg’s value lies in how creatively an offense is willing to use him.
Draft Projection: Day 2 Pick
Trigg carries a Day 2 grade thanks to his athletic profile, positional flexibility, and pass-catching upside. For Washington, he’d be more than just a depth piece-he’d be a strategic investment in the development of Jayden Daniels and the evolution of the offense under David Blough.
He may not be the next Ertz, but in today’s NFL, where tight ends are being asked to do more than just block and chip, Trigg has the tools to carve out a real role-and maybe even become a featured piece down the line.